I recently acquired two letters, one written in 1841 and the
other in 1842 from Silvester Stevens of HermonNY
to his brother-in-law and sister. The letters give an interesting glimpse
into the hard times that were faced by the early farmers in that area.
While Silvester was apparently a constable in the town, he also was apparently
having a great deal of financial difficulties. Both letters ask his
“brother” to help him out financially, either through sending money or by
coming to Hermon and buying his farm. He also thanks his brother for
sending $10 a year or so earlier, but apologizes for not being able to repay
it.

In the 1842 letter, Silvester mentions his family includes a
four month old boy who was at that time still unnamed. He asks his sister
to name the child “for he is a fine boy and worthy of a good name”.
Looking at old census records, this child would appear to be his son, James.